RESTAURANT owners in Leeds are serving up some much-needed support for local charities by backing the popular StreetSmart scheme.

Nine eateries from across the city have signed up to the annual fundraiser, which offers diners the choice of adding £1 to their bill to help local causes.

Last year, the YEP-backed campaign raised a staggering £20,000 – and it is hoped the success will continue this year.

Owner of The Olive Tree restaurants, George Psarias, has supported the campaign since it started nine years ago.

This year all three of his restaurants in Rodley, Headingley and Chapel Allerton will be taking part.

George, who opened his first restaurant 32 years ago, said: “It’s the biggest charity campaign that we do and most people are happy to help as they know it is for a good cause.

“We raised £3,000 last year and we’re aiming to do the same again this time around.”

For the first time, Dish and MeatLiquor will be supporting the campaign.

Sanjay Sood-Smith, assistant manager at MeatLiquor at Trinity Leeds, said: “We got involved because we really like that the money raised through StreetSmart Leeds goes directly to charities in the local area.”

He added: “We are really pleased to be able to use what we do to support local charities and help give back to the community here, who have already given us a great reception since we opened.”

Charities that will benefit this year include Leeds Women’s Aid, Teen Challenge Leeds, St George’s Crypt, Caring For Life and the St Anne’s Resource Centre.

Rachel McAlley, campaign manager for StreetSmart Leeds, said: “It’s great to have two new restaurants on board this year, as well as a new charity. Fingers crossed it will be just as much of a success as it was last year.”